Lebanese Activist Backing Netanyahu Targeted by Hezbollah

Lebanese journalist and activist Charles Jobour, a member of the Christian Lebanese Forces party known for his opposition to Hezbollah, is facing a smear campaign and threats from the organization. The situation escalated after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shared an interview with Jobour as part of his election campaign. In the interview, conducted in Lebanon, Jobour openly supported Netanyahu and praised his actions against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. These statements, amplified by the Israeli Prime Minister, sparked strong reactions in Lebanon. A source in Beirut told Kan News that Jobour has received warnings from local political figures advising him to keep a low profile for his safety, stating that the "Hezbollah camp already marked him as a target and a collaborator with Israel." Despite the threats, Jobour remains defiant, affirming his support for his statements and his intention to continue speaking out.

The threats against Jobour follow a pattern of harassment against individuals opposing Hezbollah in Lebanon. Last month, Kan News reported that Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raji, also from the Lebanese Forces party and a staunch opponent of Hezbollah, received threats and was instructed to avoid his office. A source close to Raji expressed concern that Hezbollah might attempt to harm the minister due to his stances, particularly given that the Foreign Ministry is located in the heart of Beirut, an area under the organization's influence. Raji had previously attempted, unsuccessfully, to expel Iran's ambassador from Lebanon.